emPower North Youth

What is the emPower North Youth:

emPower North Youth combines strong community relationships with clean energy program expertise to galvanize Northsiders in taking clean energy actions. The project aims to direct two time-bound campaigns that empower Northern Green Zone residents and businesses to choose clean electricity and reduce energy consumption. Since renewable energy has great appeal in the community, the project started September 2019’s campaign focusing on spurring businesses and residents to take advantage of solar and wind energy opportunities. Noting that keeping energy use low is just as important as having clean energy, the second campaign on energy efficiency will capitalize on the fruits of Home Energy Squad visits to drive insulation and heating system upgrades.

Our Strategy:

emPower North Youth meets weekly throughout the school year to learn about and research renewable energy. To make the program more exciting, participants engage in monthly video challenges where they create environmental content to share on social media. They also conduct community interviews to educate residents about renewable energy and energy efficiency, including enrolling in clean energy options, reducing energy consumption, and exploring green career pathways.

Though Minneapolis is home to many great efficiency programs and renewable energy options, data from the Minneapolis Clean Energy Partnership reports show that renewable energy program participation and home energy investments in the Northern Green Zone lag behind that in other parts of the city. Having culturally relevant messaging and credible messengers have been barriers to greater participation in North Minneapolis. By driving residents and businesses to take clean energy actions, the result will be greenhouse gas emission reductions, decreases in energy burden, and the activation of a community clean energy ethos.

The project is led by MN Renewable Now (MRN), an organization with strong existing community ties and the expertise to foster greater relationships through racially and culturally sensitive messaging. As we are based on the Northside, our focus will be the Northern Green Zone along with nearby Northside neighborhoods that are ready to partner with us. Because Green Zones have a high density of people of color (up to over 92% in some neighborhoods) and share a low Area Median Income (AMI), it is critical to us that this program helps to build their wealth. As neighbors have the opportunity to make investments in renewable energy, they can save money in the long term. Similarly, as home energy efficiency is improved, fewer dollars are spent on energy and can instead be used in the community.

MRN is partnered with the Center for Energy and Environment (CEE), which brings knowledge of clean energy programs, financing tools, and marketing expertise with Community Based Social Marketing. We are also partnered with place-based organizations such as Northside Residents Redevelopment Council, McKinley Neighborhood Association, Hawthorne Neighborhood Association, and Folwell Neighborhood to help spread outreach materials and broadcast events.

Environmental video created by emPower North Youth

If you look out your peep hole and you see one of us, don’t worry. We live in your neighborhood and happen to be your own personal renewable energy and energy navigator. We can also refer you to training opportunities if interested in finding a green career. Ask us how to switch your Electric bill to 100% renewable today.

Whether you rent a studio apartment or own a mini mansion, you can power your entire living space with renewable energy for under $5 a month. Give us a call or attend one of our presentations and don’t just wait for us to come knocking.

- Power North Engagement Team